Krabi

Welcome To The Best Beach Destination!

Resting along the coast of the Andaman Sea, Krabi is a southern province of Thailand. The place is a top tourist destination for its abundant natural gems including white sandy beaches; see through water, colourful coral reefs, ancient caves and cascading waterfalls and more than 130 beautiful islands including Koh Lanta.

Krabi is all about the boundless stretch of azure and emerald waters. Apart from natural charm, the place offers huge treat for the food lovers whether one gorge on its delicious seafood or local Thai dishes. When you are in Krabi how can adventure be left! Dive into the crystal clear water, or indulge yourself doing snorkelling, parasailing and kayaking. If you have enough of the adventure then, take a ferry ride to the lovely islands sprinkled around the province.

In a nutshell Krabi is a perfect beach destination that never fails to impress the visitors.

Located around 20 min from Krabi Town, Ao Nang and Nopparat Thara beach (adjacent to each other) are one of the rapidly growing and busy tourist centre of Krabi province. With a good range & wide variety of accommodation, good eating joints, feasible transport and many travel and tour agency Ao Nang offers all the comforts for and enjoyable holiday. Place in the western most part of Krabi Island, this palm fringed beach serves as a good hunting ground to explore approximately two hundred islands which are dotted around Krabi Island. Surrounded by turquoise water, these beaches also offer many adventurous activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, trekking and hiking. The limestone cliffs, bubbled in the sea are good place for rock climbing. So apart from taking a relaxed vacation, you can indulge in thrilling activities.

Had Yao Beach

White sand and untouched beauty of the Had Yao beach makes it one of the rare beauties of Krabi. Also recognises as ‘Long Beach’ this one kilometre coastline although observes fewer crowds but has always been popular for its beautiful surroundings. The west coast of this beach is known as Koh Pha Ngan that possesses a treasure of rich coral reef & marine life making it a hub for snorkelling lovers & divers. Presence of many hotels, budget rooms, eateries and nightclubs invites all those travellers who are looking for a quiet retreat from chaotic city life. As the far coast region is hilly, there are a number of mountain trails to trek. Other tourist places of interests around the beach are Laem Son – a popular freshwater lake and Wang Sai Waterfall.

Thung Teao Forest Natural Park

Remarkable for many rare plants and animals, Thung Teao forest Natural Park is situated in the southern Thailand. The place is popular for its Krabi Crystal Pool which is a unique and must see attraction of the place. The pool is contained with warm and see-through water where you can enjoy swimming. The lush green surrounding area enriches the beauty of the place. The natural trek is another place of interest in the park which offers to watch some rare animals and birds like Pitta Gurney, which was once considered extinct but spotted in the park.

Wat Tham Sua (Krabi Tiger Cave)

Wat Tham Sua is one of the Thailand’s many natural wonders that must be visited while you are in Krabi. The temple is a warren of natural caves formed within the green woods and serves as a shelter for many monks who live and worship here. As per the legend a tiger once living in the cave, giving it the name ‘Sua’ means tiger in Thai. The footprints of tiger can still be spotted in the caves. In the main cave of the temple, some icons and relics are kept. To see this one has to ascend 1,237 steps up on a limestone tower. But the tough clime has surely worth for its rewards of the panoramic sights it offers, especially during sunrise and sunset. The major highlight of the cave is ‘the Buddha’s footprint’.

Klong Thom Hot Spring

The soothing hot springs of Krabi are situated in the midst of rain forested area, 70 Km away from the Krabi town (close to Emerald Park or Thung Teo Forest Natural Park). These natural hot springs have been carved into smooth rocks and is fed from the deep penetrated thermal springs located in volcanic chambers. The average temperature of the water remains 35-40 C and is believed to possess potential natural minerals to cure many diseases. It is very relaxing to take a bath in these hot springs and the beautiful surrounding are the additional delights. These baths merge into a cool stream which is ideal for taking a dip or dive.

Khao Khanab Nam

The Khao Khanab Nam Moutains are the most conspicuous and famous markers of Krabi Island. Set on the either side of river, these mountains are set atop of a long series of caves that are contained with many beautiful clusters formation of stalagmites and stalactites. These structures are created over thousands of years. A large number of skeletons were discovered inside these caves which gave rise to many assumptions. You can also stop at nearby fishing village – Ko Klang, where you will find a museum and a local craft centre.

Krabi Town

If you want to experience the real charm of a Thai town then visit the Krabi town. Long ago this town was a market Thai town and without any disturbance in this local feeling, it still maintains this reputation. Even with the booming travel industry the town didn’t get affected from the commercialisation. You can still see the fishing boats used in the day catches in the river running through the town. You can also have some authentic slices of Thai food in its eating joints. The hospitality and the real Thai-ness of the town will surely impress you.

Koh Lanta Yai

Koh Lanta Yai is the biggest of the group of fifty-two islands, which are located in the southernmost region of Thailand’s province. The island lies around seventy kilometres from Krabi and is a popular destination accessible from Phuket and Phi Phi island. Apart from giving a quiet escapade, the island is also contains many certified diving schools which offer to peep into the rich marine life of the deep ocean. There is no problem of accommodation as there are many resorts and guest houses in the place and due to a low tourist zone these are available in reasonable price.

Krabi Shell Cemetery Susan Hoi

Susan Hoi is an million years old fossilized shell cemetery. Located around 17 km from Krabi town these are stretched on a 200 meter along the rocky cliffs of Ban Laem Pho. With thousands of remains covering the rocks there are around three formations are found. As per some claims some of these fossils (turtles and fish) are claimed to be 50 million years while the locals have their own different view. Whatever be the discrepancies in the opinions, there is no doubt of these fossils of being at least 20 million years old.

When it comes to food, there are a number of eating options in Krabi. There are a number of restaurants, eating joints, street food which offers much international cuisine besides Thai Food. Chain restaurants like McDonald, Burger King, Subway and Starbucks are also located in the town, so there are plenty of options to eat out. To get the real flavour of the authentic cuisine of the place you must taste the famous Thai Food. The amalgam of taste and aroma is the main quality of the Thai food. Unique ingredients and many ways of cooking method give richness to the food and make it popular all over the world.

If you want to feed the real taste of Krabi to your palate, then try some of these authentic Thai dishes:

Street Food

To savour the Thai delicacies in Krabi, street food offers a wide option. One of these choices is stick food where a variety of food like sausages, fish balls and tofu and meat balls are prepared and dipped in a tray of chilli sauce.

Pad Thai, Hot & Spicy fishcakes dipped in chilli jam, Papaya salad which is locally known as Som Tam, Khao mod gai, cold noodle salad with fish curry, roti pancakes and mango with sticky rice are some authentic Thai dishes which are commonly available in the roadside food joints. To quench your thirst, try iced drinks which are available in several flavours. In the dessert section, you will find coconut pudding selling in very reasonable price. Several night markets held in the town are also a good source to taste some very good street food. The popular ones of these are Khong Kha Pier Night Market and Walking Street.

If you want to have some good fresh seafood, then Krabi is perfect place to fulfil this wish. There are many restaurants in Krabi which serve freshly prepared sea food.

The festivals in Krabi show the amalgam of diverse cultures that persist in the place. some of them are traditional Thai fest that are celebrated all over the country, but some are unique to the place which includes many entertaining activities.

Let’s known something about these fests:

Laanta Lanta Festival

Held at Ko Lanta, Laanta Lanta is a three day annual event in March which gives us a chance to be acquainted with the traditional Krabi culture. The festival sees musical and dance performances and an array of traditional arts and crafts. Folk games and water sports are other highlights of this festival.

Krabi International Rock Climbing Competition

Apart from being a favourite tourist spots for Rock climbers, Krabi also holds International Rock Climbing Competition. Organised at Railay Beach, this event attracts many rock climbing enthusiasts to the place from all across the world. the main highlight of this event is competition where climbers undertake climbing limestone mountain cliffs for the awarding cash prizes.

Sat Duan Dip Festival

Sat Duan Sip Festival which means ‘Festival of the Tenth Lunar Month’ in local language is celebrated to pay homage to their ancestors. It is believed there that the spirits of the deceased ancestors visit the earth from the first to the last day of the waning moon in the tenth lunar month. Delicious food is prepared and offered in the baskets to these ancestors by placing it in the monasteries, followed by colourful procession.

Chak Phra Festival

Chak Phra means ‘The Pulling’ in local language, is the commemoration of the return of the Buddha to the earth. Celebrated throughout Thailand around October, it involves a colourful and grand three kilometres long parade.

Krabi Boek Fa Andaman Festival

Held for three days in November, Krabi Boek Fa Andaman Festival marks the official opening of the tourist season in the place. Literally translates as ‘Opening the Andaman Sea’, it is a delightful time which showcases many sea sports competitions, cultural music and dance performances, array of local Thai food & drinks and many local products for sale.

Being a popular beach destination there are many water activities in Krabi which can be enjoyed in its popular beaches. There are very few places in the world like Krabi where you can fulfil your adventurous desire with such a beautiful setting. The clear water of Andaman Sea, colourful marine creatures and hospitable people make are inviting to indulge in the thrilling at the same time enjoyable activities.

Let’s know about these Krabi points of interest which pleases so many tourists.

Snorkelling and Scuba Diving

It is one of the popular activities which tourist opt in Krabi. The favoured conditions and many spots to enjoy this water sport make it a fun thing to do here. You can try it at the awesome beaches or you can take boats to the island to have a sneak peek into the marine life. There are many spectacular diving sites in Phi Phi and Aonang where you can have this fantastic activity. You will also find many dive tour operators in these places where both day and night trips can be booked.

Rock Climbing

You can try this activity best at the Railay Beach which is considered hub for rock climbers. Even if you are a layman and want to try your hand at this, then there are many climbing schools which are furnished with well-trained specialists and climbing courses for everyone.

Kayaking

It is the best way to explore the mangrove forest that lined the Krabi coast. Replete with caves, lagoons and wildlife; Thalane Bay and Bor Thor are the two major spots for kayaking. There are several small channels in the Thalane Bay which will lead you to the mangrove forest. Bor thor is an inland mangrove system where you can pass through the ancient caves with paintings. In Krabi, you can also opt for guided canoe trips where travellers are ferried to chosen islands and taken to sea kayaks tours.

Cycling

Cycling is another popular activity of Krabi. With good road system and safe ride, you will find many folks taking cycle trips.

ATV Riding

Among most thrilling activities in Krabi, you can try ATV riding. This activity is taken on the river beds and rocky-muddy tracks passing through panoramic scenery.

Fishing

There are many promising fishing points in Krabi where you can enjoy this water activity a lot.

With several department stores, malls, markets; Krabi is a shopper’s delight. There are end numbers of things loaded in its markets where you can satiate the shopaholic inside you. From handicrafts, electronics, furniture, sports related items, souvenirs, gems, pearls and jewellery to fabrics; name anything and the Krabi shopping markets are ready to offer you.

Let’s know some of the Krabi shopping tips where we are telling what to buy and where to buy in Krabi.

Thai Handicrafts

These are the most picked up items by the travellers. Prepared from bamboo, cane, silk and paper; there are thousands of products available. You can buy bags or jewelleries or gifts in this. These handicrafts are also a good souvenir to take back home. Ao Nang, Krabi Town and Koh Lanta are the major sites where you can buy these handicrafts.

Sports related items

Krabi offers opportunity for a lot of land and water activities like bamboo rafting, kayaking, cave exploration, trekking etc. As a result, the province has many sports shops where you can buy equipments and objects related to these activities. You can get these items in Ao Nang, Railay Bay, Koh Lanta or Krabi Town.

Souvenirs

There are many things in Krabi shopping markets which can be bought as souvenirs. You can buy seashell products like ornaments, lampshades, photo frames which are attractive gifting items. Although you will get the souvenirs in any shopping streets and shops but the major places to buy these are Ao Nang, Krabi Town, Klong Muang, Phi Phi Island and Koh Lanta.

Gems

If you are a gemstone lover, then Thailand is very good place to buy it. In Krabi, you can purchase attractive coloured gemstones like rubies or sapphires in Ao Nang, Koh Lanta, Railay Bay and Krabi Town.

Clothes and accessories

When it comes to clothing, Thailand is one of the leading tourist destinations where you can shop for good quality clothes in a reasonable price. There are fashionable boutiques, street side shops and stores where you can bargain for jeans or t-shirts. You can also buy silk which is one of the quality products of Thailand available in wide range of colours and patterns. The major places in Krabi where you will get all these are – Ao Nang, Lanta Island and Krabi Town.

Krabi province is comprised of several scenic beaches, islands and the mainland. If you are searching for some good accommodation places in Krabi, then you will not be disappointed. The place is full of luxurious resorts, five star or three star hotels, mid ranged hotels, bread & breakfast and budget hotels. All these are dotted in the main tourist area of the province. You can choose the location as per your preference and interest. It is advisable to know something about the area where you will reside before choosing the staying place.

Where to stay in Krabi

Ao Nang Beach

It is the main tourist spots of Krabi which sees the greatest concentration of the tourist visiting the province. As it is located near to many scenic beaches and give quick access to many islands in the region, it is one of the most preferred spots for the tourists to stay. In addition to this, the area contains ample restaurants, shopping centres and nightlife. Other benefit of staying in this area is its confined area where you can easily reach any place on foot.

Railley Beach

You will have to take a water taxi to reach the Railley Beach which is the only medium to arrive there. Due to its panoramic backdrop it is desired place for many travellers. It also offers a gateway for some of the best beaches of Krabi. Many lavish hotels and resorts are placed in this spot.

Kho Lak

Contained with many sandy beaches, it is one of the desired and developed area where you can enjoy a relaxing holiday.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is the perfect place if you want a secluded escape as the place observes lesser crowd of tourists. You can also enjoy dive trips to the near located islands.

Koh Jum

Laced with some long sandy beaches, Koh Jum is a peaceful place where you can relax by escaping the crowd.

Koh Ngai

Located in the south of Koh Lanta, Koh Ngai is a small island with clear water.

There are a number of ways to arrive Krabi whether you are coming here from Bangkok, Phuket or Phang Nga Province. Krabi can be reached by air, road, train and water.

Reaching Krabi by Air

Krabi International Airport is located about 15 Kilometres from the Krabi city and is linked with a number of domestic and international airport. It is connected to several major cities like Bangkok, Koh Samui, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur with regular flights.

Reaching Krabi by Train

There is no direct train for Krabi as the nearest train station from Krabi is Trang, 2 hours drive away from Krabi. If you are coming to Krabi from Bangkok then catch a train from Hualomphong Station of Bangkok and get down at any of these stations – Suratthani (165 Km), Trang (126 Km) and Tung Song (166 Km).

Reaching Krabi by Bus

Daily buses are available from south bus terminal of Bangkok to Krabi and takes around 10-13 hours to reach. The tickets can also be taken from any travel agent or from the hotel desks of the city. If you are coming from Phuket, then the bus will take 3-4 hours to reach Krabi. Apart from buses the choices of minibus and local bus are also available in Phuket to reach Krabi.

Reaching Krabi by Ferries

Ferries are the best way to reach Krabi if you want to see the beauty of the Andaman Sea along the way. You can go for this option if you are travelling Krabi from Phuket via Phi Phi Island as there are no direct ferries available. You can also hire a private speedboat which will take around 3 hours to reach Krabi. The regular ferry trip from Phuket to Phi Phi Island will take 90 minutes and from Phi Phi Islands to Krabi it will take 90 minutes more.

Getting Around in Krabi

The most convenient and reasonable mode of transportation to mover here and there are Songthaews. This signature vehicle of Thailand will take you to any major tourist attraction. To travel to nearby island the best possible way is long tail boat.